Total hip arthroplasty (THA) usually involves an incision of approximately 20 to 25 cm long. Surgeons recently have begun to question the need for such a long incision and are developing less invasive approaches to THA. A mini-incision approach to THA promotes shorter hospital stays, faster rehabilitation, and an increase in patient satisfaction without a detrimental effect on outcome. The surgical technique is based on the classic Moore approach to the hip. The incisions measure 6 to 10 cm in length, and the surgery involves significantly less deep soft-tissue disruption. All the basic tenets of THA are respected and visualization is maintained throughout the procedure for proper placement of the components. Mini-incision THA offers a safe and effective alternative to THA performed through a larger incision. Obese patients typically are not good candidates. Patients with severe hip dysplasia or those undergoing revision surgery require a wider exposure to perform the arthroplasty to ensure the best possible result. In properly selected patients, however, THA can be performed through an abridged mini-incision without compromising the results or exposing the patient to additional risk.